Duterte makes no mention of alleged party rift during PDP-Laban Cares anniversary

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 15) — President Rodrigo Duterte made no mention of the reported troubles of his political party at an event celebrating the anniversary of its humanitarian arm Wednesday.

The President unusually read a prepared speech, and thanked his partymates for their continued support.

Duterte asked PDP-Laban and its partners to help the government find solutions to the challenges facing the country, and asked members to create policies for the poor and marginalized, promote respect for religious beliefs, and create equal opportunities for all.

"As we go for reforms in this administration, our unity is now important more than ever. I therefore ask for the continued support of PDP-Laban and its partners in creating practical solutions to address root cause of our nation's problems," he said.

He also urged members to push the party's core agenda, federalism, forward.